Sophie Adenot to Launch on European Space Agency Mission to ISS in 2026

European Space Agency astronaut Sophie Adenot is set to embark on a mission to the International Space Station, known as εpsilon, with a launch window opening no earlier than February 15, 2026. The mission’s name reflects the idea that even small contributions can lead to significant impacts. In mathematical terms, ε symbolizes a small quantity, similar to the role of an astronaut amidst the vastness of space. In the context of astronomy, it also refers to the fifth-brightest star in a constellation.

Adenot will join a diverse crew aboard the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, launching from Florida, USA. The team comprising four members includes NASA astronauts Jessica Meir and Jack Hathaway, alongside Roscosmos cosmonaut Andrey Fedyaev. This mission will mark a significant chapter in Adenot’s career as she aims to contribute to advanced scientific research during her expected nine-month stay in orbit, contributing to both Expedition 74 and Expedition 75.